Excessive Heat

During periods of excessive heat or when a Heat Warning is issued……….

A Heat Warning is normally issued within 12 hours of the onset of the following criteria: Heat index of at least 105 degrees F for more than 3 hours per day for 2 consecutive days, or heat index more than 115 degrees F for any period of time.

In a normal year, approximately 175 Americans die from extreme heat. Young children, elderly people, and those who are sick or overweight are more likely to become victims.

Because men sweat more than women, men are more susceptible to heat illness because they become more quickly dehydrated. Sunburn can also significantly slow the skin’s ability to release excess heat.

What to do if the weather is extremely hot:

Stay indoors as much as possible and limit exposure to the sun.

Stay on the lowest floor out of the sunshine if air conditioning is not available.

Consider spending the warmest part of the day in public buildings such as libraries, schools, movie theaters, shopping malls, and other community facilities.

Drink plenty of water.

Avoid alcoholic beverages.

Dress in loose-fitting, lightweight, and light-colored clothes that cover as much skin as possible.

Protect face and head by wearing a wide-brimmed hat.

Check on family, friends, and neighbors who do not have air conditioning and who spend much of their time alone.

Never leave children or pets alone in closed vehicles.

If working, take frequent breaks.

Be aware of:

Heat CrampsMuscular pains and spasms due to heavy exertion. Although heat cramps are the least severe, they are often the first signal that the body is having trouble with the heat.

Heat ExhaustionTypically occurs when people exercise heavily or work in a hot, humid place where body fluids are lost through heavy sweating. Blood flow to the skin increases, causing blood flow to decrease to the vital organs. This results in a form of mild shock. If not treated, the victim’s condition will worsen. Body temperature will keep rising and the victim may suffer heat stroke.

Heat StrokeA life-threatening condition. The victim’s temperature control system, which produces sweating to cool the body, stops working. The body temperature can rise so high that brain damage and death may result if the body is not cooled quickly.